Macdonald proves he has learned his lesson

Macdonald proves he has learned his lesson

COWBOYS winger Nene Macdonald has vowed to improve his off-field discipline after a training mishap almost spoiled his North Queensland homecoming.

MacDonald was threatened with the selection axe before he'd even played a game in Cowboys colours after he reported late to training ahead of their final trial against the Storm.

The prized recruit was left out of the side as a result meaning he didn't get a chance to trial with his new club before he was sent back to play for the Northern Pride in the Queensland Cup the following weekend.

Macdonald starred for the Pride which was enough to convince Cowboys coach Paul Green that he deserved another chance and he took his place on the right wing against the Dragons in last weekend's opening round.

"I was more angry at myself that I missed training and missed that trial game against Melbourne, but that was on me and I'm glad I've learnt from that and pushed forward from it."

Macdonald said it was a surreal moment to pull on a Cowboys jersey having grown up in Cairns and he expected that feeling to kick up a notch in his first Queensland derby against the Broncos tonight.

The former Kirwan High student said other clubs were envious of the rivalry the Cowboy and Broncos have built since their 2015 grand final clash and he was excited to finally experience it from the field.

"I think everyone can say this from other clubs, they love watching this game and how tough it is," Macdonald said.